How do you build a winning organizational culture that increases employee engagement, decreases turnover, and increases productivity and profits? You build a culture that is committed to focusing and developing each individual’s strengths.
A strengths-based culture is one where leaders focus on developing people to their potential rather than focusing on weaknesses.
It’s an organization where strengths-focused development is leveraged to bring the vision, mission, values, and organizational purpose to life. Additionally, having clarity about that organizational purpose is foundational to guiding your team’s strengths-based development in the right direction.
It’s no secret that in the sports world, elite teams win titles by playing to the strengths of those on their roster. Sure, a football team can win games with the right strategy, good coaching, and hard work – they can be focused, passionate, and determined – but if the team members are not playing to their strengths, they will never win the Super Bowl.
There is a reason why Josh Allen is the Buffalo Bills quarterback, Stefon Diggs is a wide receiver, and Tyler Bass is the kicker. Each player is playing to their strengths and in a position that optimizes their natural-born talents. When each player on a football team plays to their strengths, has the right equipment, is supported by a team of coaches, engages in lots of practice, and works hard, it will significantly increase their chances of going to the Super Bowl.
The same principles apply in the business world. Each player in an organization needs to have their work align with their natural-born strengths. Additionally, they need to have a supportive, growth-minded leader who continuously coaches them to grow and develop those strengths.
Did you know that organizations that believe in a strength-focused culture have significantly greater employee engagement, decreased turnover, and increased profits?
As a leader of your organization, it is imperative that you know and understand the strengths of each member of your team. You need to know with certainty what role is best for each member in order for them to grow and achieve their potential. You need to understand what position will ensure they can do their best every day, contributing to the overall success of the business. When an organization has a clearly defined culture and aligns with the strengths of its people, it can significantly accelerate business success.
To start building a strengths-based culture ask yourself:
- What cultural beliefs am I trying to develop?
- Do I know the strengths of each member of my team? If so, is each team member doing work aligned with those strengths?
- Is my team utilizing their collective strengths to improve the organizational culture and drive business results?
